The automotive landscape is evolving, and the 2024 LDV eT60 is a testament to this transformation. As Australia’s first electric dual-cab ute, it enters the market with a bold promise: eco-conscious performance without compromising utility. Let’s dive into the details.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Electric Powertrain: The eT60 boasts an 88kWh battery and a single electric motor, delivering a respectable 130kW and 310Nm of torque. It’s a refreshing departure from traditional combustion engines.
• Niche Appeal: While not for everyone, the eT60 targets large corporations, government entities, and early adopters committed to emissions reduction.
• Reasonable Driving Experience: Acceleration is brisk, and the absence of engine noise creates a serene cabin environment.

Cons

• Price Tag: At $92,990, the eT60 isn’t cheap. Private buyers might hesitate, but corporate fleets could find value.
• Limited Range: With a driving range of 330km, the eT60 falls short compared to long-range competitors.
• Towing and Loading Challenges: Despite being a utility vehicle, towing and loading capabilities are compromised.

How Much Does It Cost?

The 2024 LDV eT60 isn’t exactly budget-friendly. Expect to pay around $93,606 to $100,061 drive-away, depending on dealer options. That’s a hefty chunk of change, especially compared to traditional diesel utes. However, government incentives for electric vehicles can help ease the sticker shock – check your state for specific details.

Features and Benefits

• Electric Power: The eT60’s 88kWh battery powers a single electric motor, providing smooth acceleration and a quiet ride.
• Safety: Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking.
• Interior Comfort: The cabin is spacious, with modern infotainment and comfortable seating.
• Cargo Space: The dual-cab design ensures ample room for tools, gear, or weekend adventures.

Safety

LDV prioritizes safety:

• Crash Ratings: Official crash test ratings are pending, but LDV emphasizes structural integrity.
• Driver Aids: Advanced driver assistance systems enhance safety during daily drives.

Running Costs

• Charging: Charging the eT60 at home (using a standard wall outlet) takes around 12 hours. Fast chargers reduce this to approximately 1.5 hours.
• Maintenance: Electric vehicles generally have fewer moving parts, translating to lower maintenance costs.

The Competition: Battling it Out in the E-Ute Arena

The eT60 doesn’t have a whole lot of electric ute competition yet, but there are whispers of other manufacturers joining the fray. So, for now, the eT60 is kind of in a league of its own.

Conclusion

A Trailblazer With Room for Improvement

The 2024 LDV eT60 is a bold step towards electric utes in Australia. It offers a clean, zero-emission option with a decent driving range and payload capacity. However, the price tag and lack of advanced safety features might hold some buyers back.

Rating: 6.5/10

The eT60 is a promising first attempt, but it needs some refinement. If LDV can address the safety concerns and bring the price down a notch in future models, the eT60 could become a more compelling option for eco-conscious ute enthusiasts.